How to Make a DIY Glitter Cellphone Case

1. Clean the Cellphone Case

   Lay down a drop cloth or layer of newspapers before you begin this project, as glitter can be messy. If the cellphone case is in use, remove the phone and set it in a safe place. Then, clean the cellphone case with dish soap and water to remove any dirt or dust. It is important to start with a clean surface; otherwise the glitter won't properly stick to it.

2. Mix the Glitter and Glue Sealer

   Pour a small amount of glue sealer in the disposable bowl, and then pour the glitter into the bowl. Start slowly when adding the glitter. You want there to be enough that you can see the glitter but not so much that it becomes so thick that it will be difficult to paint with. If you find it hard to stir the glue sealer and glitter mixture, then you will need to add more glue sealer.

   To judge whether there is enough glitter, note that typically the glue sealer will take on the color of the glitter. For example, if you are using green glitter the glue sealer will no longer look white but green instead.

3. Paint Your First Layer

   Paint a thin layer of the glue sealer and glitter mixture onto the back exterior of the cellphone case using your disposable foam brush. Allow this coat to dry to the touch.

4. Paint Another Layer

   After the first coat has dried, paint another thin coat of the glue sealer and glitter mixture on the back exterior of the case.

5. Paint the Sides and Front

   After the back of the case has dried, flip it over to paint the sides and front. Use the same process as you did for the back: painting one thin layer, waiting for it to dry, and then painting another layer.

6. Look for Touch-up Spots

   Once the front and sides have dried, lightly tap the case to remove any loose glitter. Touch up any spots where the glitter appears too sparse with a thin layer of the glue sealer and glitter mixture.

7. Paint a Final Coat of Glue Sealer

   For extra durability, paint one final layer of just the glue sealer on the exterior of the cellphone case.

Variation on a DIY Glitter Cellphone Case

Instead of using glitter, you can also use cut-up pieces of tinsel to decorate your phone case. But be aware that with pieces of tinsel, you still will see the original color of the cellphone case whereas glitter can become quite opaque depending on how much you apply. If you wish, you can paint your cellphone case with an acrylic paint to change the color before adding the tinsel. Then, follow the same painting process, replacing the glitter with tinsel.